It is a tradition that has been ongoing for 13 years and it has come to signal the start of Christmas for many children in the community.
Local service clubs will be hosting the 13th annual Children’s Christmas Party at the Elks Hall in Okotoks on Dec. 3.
The event is a partnership between the local Elks, Lions and Kinsmen clubs, the Royal Purple and the Town of Okotoks.
Ron Christensen of the Okotoks Kinsmen Club said it is an opportunity for children to get into the festive spirit.
“The adults have all of their Christmas parties well this is a chance for the kids to have their own Christmas party,” said Christensen.
It will be quite the party as children will be treated to music, clowns, balloons, cotton candy and crafts with the Girl Guides.
In addition, the Okotoks Fire Department will be on hand grilling hot dogs and brewing hot chocolate.
Also, there will be band on hand playing Christmas carols for the children and parents alike.
Finally, each child will be given a goodie bag to take home. The treats will not only include candy, but skating and swimming passes for the Okotoks Recreation Centre courtesy the Town of Okotoks.
“Kids will have a ball,” said Christensen. “We will fill them up with sugar and candy and then scoot them out the door.”
Admission to the Christmas party is a donation of a non-perishable food item or cash to the Okotoks Food Bank.
The Christmas party is geared towards children up to age 10 and parents are asked to stay with their children while they are at the event.
The Children’s Christmas Party will be held from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Elks Hall in Okotoks.
